Pediatric Female Genital Trauma
Genital trauma is defined as any injury to the female genital area – including the labia, vulva and/or vagina.
What is a Pediatric Female Genital Trauma?
Straddle injuries are the most common genital trauma in females. They occur when a child sustains an injury from falling on an object that is being straddled (playground equipment, bike, arm of chair, bathtub side, etc.).
Most cases of genital trauma occur accidentally and involve bruising, swelling and/or minor cuts on their outer labia that heal within a few days. Even minor cuts in this area can cause significant bleeding because of rich blood supply. The vagina and urethra are protected by the labia and are generally not harmed in these cases.
If the child falls on a blunt or sharp object, penetrating injuries to the vagina can occur. These injuries can be mild or serious and often require rapid examination by a doctor. Rarely, genital trauma can be a sign of abuse.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Female Genital Trauma?
Genital trauma related to straddle injuries may include:
Bleeding
Bruising
Mild to moderate pain or discomfort
Redness
Swelling
Genital trauma sustained by falling on a sharp or blunt object – or other severe genital injuries – may include:
Abrasions
Bruising – including inside the vagina
Dizziness, nausea/vomiting
Moderate to severe pain
More significant vaginal bleeding
Problems with urination
Vaginal discharge
How is a Pediatric Female Genital Trauma diagnosed?
Your child’s doctor will ask about your daughter’s symptoms and how the trauma occurred. The doctor will then conduct a thorough physical examination to look at the vulva, perineum and lower vagina. This can typically be done while the patient is awake; however, in cases where a more thorough (i.e. internal) exam is necessary, the patient may need to be sedated to perform a better examination. Your doctor may perform additional tests including:
Ultrasound or x-ray, if there is concern about internal trauma
Vaginal discharge sample – to check for infection
How is a Pediatric Female Genital Trauma treated?
For genital trauma (especially straddle injuries), treatment may include:
Sitz baths
Cool compresses
Over-the-counter pain medication
Reduced physical activity
Antibiotics, if infection is present
Surgery – in rare cases – for significant trauma
Injuries to the vulva and perineum usually heal very well and will likely have no long-term consequences.
Pediatric Female Genital Trauma Doctors and Providers
